Sr. Maria Root of the Cross + Beacon Carmel

Sr. Maria was a trained and talented musician with a beautiful singing voice. Before entering Carmel, she was secretary to Maria Von Trapp of "The Sound of Music," to whom she was very devoted and who greatly influenced her. Sister came into the Catholic Church in 1948 and received her First Communion in the Trapp family chapel.

Sr. Maria entered Carmel in Williston, Vermont, on August 15, 1952 and was professed on Feburary 12, 1954. As our three Carmels came together in 1997, she joined us first in Graymoor and then in Beacon.

In the Barre, VT monastery Sr. Maria's gifts greatly enhanced liturgical celebrations. She loved music and encouraged many others to develop their own musical gifts. Her gift for hospitality made her a good listener with a good sense of humor. She generously gave of her time answering the door and telephone. We miss her quiet, steady presence among us and now that she is with God, we count on her continued intercession for us.

As Fr. Salvatore Sciurba, OCD who celebrated her funeral liturgy said: "She was a true daughter of Our Holy Mother, St. Teresa. Carmel was the love of her life. Surely, she is now with God under the protection of Our Lady's mantle.

 

Professed February 12, 1954 - Entered Eternal Life September 22, 2007